Former Formula 1 champion Nico Rosberg has suggested that Max Verstappen, the four-time champion at just 27, could follow in his footsteps and retire from the sport at a young age. Speaking in Gazzetta dello SportRosberg highlighted the intense toll that Formula 1 imposes on drivers and noted that Verstappen's achievements could already satisfy his ambitions.
Verstappen's dominance and his possible departure
Verstappen, who won his fourth consecutive championship in 2024 after a thrilling season-long battle with McLaren's Lando Norris, has hinted he could leave Formula 1 sooner than expected. The Red Bull driver, widely regarded as one of the sport's greatest talents, has expressed interest in other forms of motorsport.
“It’s possible,” Rosberg said of Verstappen's early withdrawal. “Max has already accomplished so much despite his young age. The intensity of Formula 1 leaves its mark on you, both mentally and physically. If he feels he has achieved what he wanted to achieve, and wants more from life, I would understand his choice.”
Since his breakthrough with his first championship in 2021, Verstappen has built an unrivaled legacy:
- 63 victories,
- 49 additional podiums,
- 40 pole positions.
Its 2024 triumph was particularly notable, as Red Bull's car was not the fastest on the grid for much of the season. Verstappen showed his brilliance in standout performances, including a now-legendary victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix that solidified his position as champion ahead of the Las Vegas finale.
Parallels with Rosberg's retirement
Rosberg's career trajectory offers a striking parallel. After realizing his dream of winning the championship in 2016 following an intense rivalry with Lewis Hamilton, Rosberg retired abruptly at age 31, putting his family and a new career as an F1 investor and analyst as priority.
“I have no regrets,” Rosberg said. “I achieved my dream of becoming world champion and I wanted to leave at the peak of my career. By retiring, I was able to spend more time with my family and begin my investing career. I did what I thought was right for me.”
Why Verstappen could walk away
The physical and mental toll of Formula 1, combined with Verstappen's already historic achievements, could push him to seek fulfillment outside the sport. Unlike many drivers who prolong their careers in search of elusive titles, Verstappen dominated F1 from a young age, leaving him room to explore other passions while being at the top of his game.
Verstappen has also expressed interest in competing in other motorsport disciplines, such as endurance racing or rallying, potentially following in the footsteps of former F1 drivers like Fernando Alonso.
A cemented legacy
If Verstappen were to retire in the near future, he would leave behind a legacy unrivaled in modern Formula 1. However, fans and analysts are hopeful that his peak years are far from over, as his talent and relentless competitiveness continue to elevate the sport.
As Rosberg said, “I would understand his choice,” but for now, Verstappen remains at the top of the race, with more championships seemingly within his reach.
